Mohali Landowners Initiate Permanent Dharna at GMADA Office Over Land Acquisition Dispute
In a significant escalation of their ongoing struggle, landowners from 16 villages in Mohali commenced a permanent sit-in protest, known as a dharna, in front of the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) office in Phase VIII on Wednesday. This demonstration is a direct response to GMADA's plans to acquire land for the expansion of the Aerotropolis project, specifically targeting areas in Sector 100 and Sector 103 of Mohali. The protesters have vowed to continue their sit-in indefinitely until their objections are thoroughly addressed by the authorities.
Failed Negotiations and Escalating Tensions
Earlier in the day, prior to the commencement of the dharna, the landowners held a crucial meeting with the GMADA Chief Administrator in an attempt to seek an early resolution to their long-standing grievances. However, the discussions proved to be inconclusive, leading to heightened frustrations among the participants. Following the meeting, the landowners raised loud slogans against both the Punjab Government and GMADA, accusing them of unjust land acquisition practices. They firmly announced that they would not permit GMADA to proceed with acquiring their land until all their concerns are adequately resolved, marking a clear stand against the development authority's actions.
Hunger Strikes and Relay Protests Intensify the Movement
To amplify their protest, seven prominent landowners, including Jagroop Singh Kurdi, Makhan Singh Gigemajra, Amrik Singh Badi, Gurbhej Singh Kurdi, Harminder Singh Patton, Harjit Singh Badi, and Jarnail Singh, undertook a hunger strike from 10 am to 5 pm in front of the GMADA office. This symbolic act of resistance is set to evolve into a relay hunger strike starting Thursday, with landowners from one village participating each day. This structured approach ensures continuous pressure on the authorities and highlights the widespread discontent among the affected communities.
Political Backing and Accusations Against the State Government
The protest garnered significant political support, with notable figures such as former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, Mohali Mayor Amarjit Singh Sidhu, SAD president Parvinder Singh Sohana, and Mohali Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi actively participating in the demonstration. These leaders accused the state government of engaging in land grabbing activities, specifically targeting farmers' properties without proper consultation or compensation. They pledged the full support of their respective political parties to the landowners' cause, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and transparent processes in land acquisition matters.
The ongoing dharna underscores the deep-seated issues surrounding land rights and development projects in Punjab, with the landowners determined to protect their interests against what they perceive as coercive acquisition efforts by GMADA.
